Rajgir Ropeway to Undergo Mock Rescue Drill with NDRF on Tuesday
In a move to bolster emergency readiness and ensure the safety of visitors, ropeway services at Rajgir will be partially suspended on Tuesday morning. The authorities have scheduled a comprehensive mock rescue exercise in collaboration with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF).
Details of the Mock Drill and Service Disruption
Ropeway manager Deepak Kumar announced that the special mock drill will commence at 8:30 am. Consequently, tourist movement on the ropeway will be halted from the morning until approximately 11:30 am, or until the exercise is fully completed. This temporary suspension is aimed at allowing the NDRF and ropeway management to conduct the drill without interruptions, focusing on simulated rescue scenarios to test and improve response protocols.
Ahead of the main event, a preparatory table talk meeting is set for 5 pm on Monday at the ropeway premises. This session will involve the NDRF team and ropeway officials to finalize the rescue strategy and operational details, ensuring a coordinated and effective drill.
Historical Significance and Modern Upgrades of the Rajgir Ropeway
The ropeway, situated on Ratnagiri hill in Rajgir, holds the distinction of being the country's oldest chairlift ropeway. It was commissioned on October 25, 1969, and has since been a vital link for pilgrims and tourists traveling to the Vishwa Shanti Stupa atop the hill. The ride offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Rajgir hills and the Pant Wildlife Sanctuary, cementing its status as one of the most popular attractions in the Nalanda district.
In recent years, the facility has undergone significant upgrades to enhance safety and capacity. A modern eight-seater cabin ropeway, or gondola system, was introduced and inaugurated on March 26, 2021. This new system was designed to improve visitor safety and increase the carrying capacity for those journeying to the World Peace Pagoda, reflecting ongoing efforts to modernize the tourist experience.
Resumption of Services Post-Drill
Once the mock drill is successfully completed, ropeway operations will resume promptly. The authorities emphasize that this exercise is a proactive measure to strengthen emergency preparedness, ensuring that both staff and tourists are well-protected in case of any unforeseen incidents. Visitors are advised to plan their trips accordingly to avoid inconvenience during the suspension period.
